Self Organizing teams

We all hear that Agile teams need to be self-organized. However there is not enough talked about what it means by self-organized. In this article, we will discuss the various qualities of self-organized teams.

High levels of personal responsibility

Self-organized team members are highly responsible individuals. They value the importance of their contribution to the overall success of the project. Because of this they do things on time, be available, and develop great relationship with other team members. When things are not happening as required, they take responsibility and do their part to get things done.

Put team first Team work

Team work

Being organized also mean being able to see the bigger picture. Self-organized team members always put team before them. Individuals have great respect for a combined democratic team decision than an ego-centric decision.

Openly ask and provide help Help me

Help me

Everyone is a learner and beginner before being an expert. So self-organized team help other team members for their short comings and also openly ask for help. They coach their fellow members and give them time to improve. As there are no shaming/blaming any one can ask for help without fear of being criticized.

Hold each other accountable

Pointing the finger

Pointing the finger

Self-organized teams are mostly a closed group and they have high levels of emotional security with each other. So they “call spade a spade” openly and bring up crucial topics and iron them out sooner. This not only happens at the same org level but they have no fear to hold a superior accountable.

High standards Its a Promise

Its a Promise

They agree upon nothing less than the best. Team members agree on a common set of standards which they continuously improve. They seek advice from industry veterans, architects, managers and anyone who can help improve themselves and the team.

NO managers required

They understand the strength and weakness of not only themselves but also other fellow team members. By respectfully and openly talking and holding each other accountable, team gets better at their game. Also self-organizing teams pick and choose who gets into their team. They often interview new individuals and sets very high expectations from the day one. Instead of managers, self-organized teams rather require a coach who will guide them from outside.

Highly mature

Maturity not only comes with age, but also with the company of highly mature individuals. Self-reinforcement of high standards and accountability makes them mature and the team members self-esteem is often very high.

Enjoy the company

Last but not the least, self-organized team enjoy their time together. They combine specific business meetings at various places where they enjoy the time and at the same time business gets done. They make fun, laugh, and merry together so that life becomes less stressful.